Fallbrook Public Utility District appoints new board member

FALLBROOK-- Mary McNeil was appointed to the Fallbrook Public
Utility District board of directors Monday night, reclaiming the
seat she lost last November to newcomer Russell McKissick.

In February, a San Diego Superior Court judge ordered McKissick,
44, to vacate his seat after it was discovered his primary
residence was outside the utility district's boundaries. McNeil had
filed a lawsuit after the election, challenging McKissick's
residency.

McNeil, 70, will begin serving on the board at its next meeting
on Monday and will complete the remainder of McKissick's four-year
term. McNeil previously served a two-year term that ended last fall
when voters elected McKissick by a 62 percent margin.

During a special meeting on Monday, McNeil was one of four
candidates vying to replace McKissick. Board members chose McNeil
for her law expertise and familiarity with district issues, members
said.

"Mary seemed to be the one that kinda had a little bit of edge,"
said board member Bert Hayden.

Board member responsibilities include setting policy as well as
directing the financial course of the district. Members serve a
four-year term and are paid a $40 stipend for each meeting they
attend. Traditionally, the board meets once a month.

McNeil said she was surprised she was reappointed but was glad
to be given the opportunity to work with the board to set district
policies.

"It's probably the most important policy-making board in the
Fallbrook area because water and sanitation is absolutely crucial
to our well-being," she said.

Member Bob Francis, who is in his second four-year term, said he
enjoyed working with McNeil in the past and is very impressed with
her background and knowledge about district issues.

"I think Mary has a very level and analytical head on her
shoulders," Francis said.

McNeil said several people came forward shortly after the
November election with information that McKissick lived outside
district boundaries in Bonsall, and encouraged her to file the
legal action.

"I hated to be the one that had to go to court and get Mr.
McKissick off the board, but I was persuaded by a number of people
that it was not right, it wasn't fair and it was illegal," she
said.

Francis said he did not believe McKissick was aware his actions
were improper. McKissick registered to vote with the address of a
Fallbrook apartment complex he owns.

"I don't think the man intended to be deceptive," he said. "It's
just unfortunate that it worked out this way."

McKissick could not be reached for comment.

Fallbrook Public Utility District general manager Keith Lewinger
said he was glad that the five-member board is now filled and ready
to set policy.

"It can be difficult to operate at times with an even numbered
board," he said. "You can end up with an even number of votes. It
has the potential of paralyzing a board."